Directions

Season the rabbit with the Rustic Rub. In a large pot, heat the oil, over high heat. When the pan is smoking hot, brown the rabbit, about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Remove to a platter and set aside. Reduce heat to medium, add the brown roux. Add the onions, celery, bell peppers, shallots, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly until vegetables are wilted. Add the salt, cayenne, black pepper, and bay leaves. Add the rabbit, andouille sausage, and wild mushrooms, and cook for 2 minutes. Add the water, stirring to mix well. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer for 1 hour or until the rabbit is tender. To assemble, ladle the gumbo into an over-sized bowl and top with the rice. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Emeril's Rustic Rub:

Combine all ingredients and store in an airtight container.

Essence (Emeril's Creole Seasoning):

Combine all ingredients thoroughly and store in an airtight jar or container.

Yield: about 2/3 cup

Recipe from "New New Orleans Cooking", by Emeril Lagasse and Jessie Tirsch. Published by William and Morrow, 1993.